Propane Tank Sizes
Propane tank sizes are as varied as their shapes. The specifications for the weight are in pounds or gallons. Regardless of which is used, the weight refers to the fuel’s weight inside the tank. It does not refer to the tank itself.
Large Tanks
Tanks hold anywhere from 250 to 1000 gallons of propane. These are used to provide fuel for buildings and large houses. These tanks are good enough for a few weeks or months. It all depends on the size of the house / building. Due to their size, these tanks have to be transported on a vehicle. Installation is done by a professional.
60 to 100 Lbs
If full, the gas and tank can weigh over 160 lbs. Those tanks with 60 lbs of propane are equivalent to 15 gallons. The 100 lb tanks on the other hand, have a capacity of 25 gallons. The typical BTU is over two million. They can be used like an acetylene torch. But most of the time they are used for heating and cooking.
20 to 40 Lbs
These are shorter than the 60 lb tanks. These propane tank sizes are the ones used for cooking appliances like grills. They can also be used on RVs. If you get one of those 20 lb versions, they will have a capacity of 4 gallons. The 40 pound tanks have a capacity of 10 while the 30 pounder has a capacity of 7 gallons. The duration is between eight to forty hours. Their lifespan will depend on the grill BTU output.
16 Ounces
These are hand held devices that you can buy in many stores. Their size makes them a practical tool for use with lanterns, portable stoves and other devices.
How to Know a Tank’s Capacity
Put the empty tank on a weighing scale. A 20 lb tank weighs 38 lbs when full and 18 lbs when empty. If the tank is a 30 lb type, it will weigh 54 lbs when full and 24 lbs if empty. A 40 lb full tank will tip the scales at 70 lbs. If it is empty it will weigh 29 lbs. If you have a 100 lb tank, the empty weight is going to be 68 lbs. If full, it will weigh 170 lbs.
After you identify the propane tank sizes, you will know how to use it. Regardless of the size however, you should install it carefully and according to the instructions.
